Philosophy

In its nature,
the act of giving birth is deeply
personal, and the variations in each woman’s hopes and experiences are infinite.

Women deserve every opportunity and
resource available to give birth how they envision.
It is my heartfelt intention to serve women and their
partners through the unique process of pregnancy and
birth by providing continuous emotional, physical, and informational support during this truly remarkable hour.

I believe that women’s bodies, in concert with their baby’s movements, instinctively understand how
to give birth, and that if respected, supported, and encouraged through the process, will be able to labor with ease, trusting themselves and their bodies, and may leave the experience feeling a sense of awe and self- reverence.

I have no judgements, feelings or expectations of how your birth experience should be, and it is my goal to support your vision above all else. This means I will work conscientiously with you to understand the plans you see for your birth, and will be your advocate in supporting those decisions. I also keep in mind that sometimes things do not go as planned, in which case I will work to help guide you through such a shift, maintaining my support and encouragement throughout.

A woman’s partner is of great importance, and I do not aim to stand in place of this significant role. Who knows and loves a woman more, and shares the intimate knowledge of her well-being than her partner? Partners alone should not have to carry the responsibility of being labor coach, but should also be given the space to witness and experience the transition to parenthood as it unfolds for him or her. Working together, we are a marvelous team, harmonizing to create a safe and loving environment for mother and baby.

Birth matters. And certainly, for you and your family, how you experience birth matters, for it will be with you always. Satisfying, and yes, pleasurable birth experiences will be carried by mother and partner into the newness of parenthood, with the power to shape an infant’s first impressions of life. Whatever your vision for your birth, I aim to support you, with love.

Rebecca Shepherd offers Seattle doula services, Capitol Hill doula services, Queen Anne doula services, Ballard doula services, West Seattle doula services, Bellevue doula services, Redmond doula services, Seattle childbirth classes, as well as service to all area neighborhoods and suburbs of the greater Puget Sound. Whether you are searching for a birth doula or Birthing From Within childbirth classes, I look forward to being with you on the journey!